Yixiang Cui pickled chilies are hot favorite in Shandong

Imagine a special kind of spicy pickled chilies that are renowned for their incredible flavor – spicy, crispy and sweet all at once.

Yixiang Cui chilies are made by the Ge Quanqin Pickle Processing Factory in Shanxian county, located in Heze city in East China's Shandong province.

What's fascinating is that this delectable delight has a rich history dating back to 1900 when local entrepreneur Ge Guangxian pioneered its creation in Shilou town in Shanxian and it has now become a legend in the region.

The secret to Yixiang Cui chilies is in using frost-resistant green peppers, high-quality soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar and more.

The process involves careful steps, from washing and blanching the peppers to fermenting them in a jar for two days – resulting in crispy green chili peppers with a clear, aromatic sauce that are simply irresistible.

Yixiang Cui pickled chilies go on the display. [Photo by Ge Quanqin for chinadaily.com.cn]

Today, Ge Quanqin's pickle factory, where Yixiang Cui chilies are made, has a large area with dedicated sections for raw materials, pickling, disinfection, logistics and finished products.

The factory is modern and efficient – ensuring a constant and consistent supply of this beloved spicy sensation. (Edited by Zhou Yunlai)